Controversial Smithfield Market plans approved

John McAslan’s controversial plans to redevelop Smithfield Market in Farringdon have been approved.

A meeting of the City of London’s planning and transport committee today voted 19-2 in favour to approve the scheme.

The proposals for developer Henderson Global Investors will retain parts of the existing building as well as providing new office and retail space.

Earlier this month, conservationists handed a 2,600-strong petition to architecture minister Ed Vaizey urging him to save the market.

Save Britain’s Heritage, who formally opposed the scheme, had gathered support from people including the playwright Alan Bennett. Save president Marcus Binney said earlier this year: “This proposal constitutes the worst mutilation of a Victoria landmark in the last 30 years.”